Things To Do in Taormina

You don’t have to go far to see Taormina’s historical centrepiece – the well-preserved Greek amphitheatre's right in the middle of town. Here, you’ve got classical columns, stepped seats and first-rate views of the sea and Mount Etna. History buffs can also drop into the Museo Archeologico di Taormina to check out the Roman relics dug up in the area.

In Taormina, you’ll find authentic Sicilian food everywhere. The locals start their day with pastries stuffed with ricotta cheese, washed down with a granita al caffè con panna – iced coffee with whipped cream. And in the evenings, a favourite is the simple pasta con le sarde – pasta with sardines and anchovies. The smartest dining address is Corso Umberto I, though don’t expect people to eat much before 10pm.

Nightlife in Taormina's all about being seen. YStart with a walk along the main street, Corso Umberto I, to the Piazza IX Aprile. This charming square's a lively meeting place that’s great for people-watching and al fresco bars. Later, many of the town’s eating and drinking places do a quick change into small clubs and discos, where glammed-up locals dance till late.

Taormina’s elegant main street is a shopper’s paradise. Armani and Prada sit comfortably alongside antique shops, jewellery places and high-end souvenir stores. If you’re on the hunt for typical Sicilian mementos, look out for pieces made with marble and wrought iron, pottery from Caltagirone and anything fashioned from Etna lava stone. And the vino alle mandorle, a dry white wine made from almonds, makes a very drinkable gift.

From Taormina's Lido Mazzaro, you can easily make your way to one of the area’s prettiest coves by paddling a boat round the Capo Sant’Andrea headland. On the way, there are some tucked-away grottoes to poke your head into. And when you arrive at Isola Bella, you'll see a tiny island which comes with rocky sunbathing spots around the outside.